Sometimes you will be drawn to a particular teacher, maybe their leaflet or their website appeals to you in some way.  Give them a call and see how they respond to any questions about reiki and they may be willing to meet you and discuss the course with you before you commit.  You could even have a treatment with them first to see if you like their style.  It is very important that you feel a rapport with your teacher.  There is no accreditation needed to give reiki treatments or to teach reiki.  This is because it is a non-invasive therapy.  The best way to find a good reiki teacher is by recommendation and even then you should check the following:

• Are they a reiki master/teacher? Check that they have trained to the third level and have had more than one teacher. Ask to see their Reiki 3 certificate, and see if you can get hold of their original teacher for an informal reference
• Can they trace back their master lineage to Dr Usui?  Ask to see their reiki master lineage
• How long are the courses?  Beware of fast track reiki courses where you learn all 3 levels in one weekend
• Is a detailed manual and certificate included?  Manuals vary from a couple of worksheets to printed books so ask what you will get.  All reiki master/teachers should write their own manuals and provide a certificate validated by the UK Reiki Federation or equivalent.
• How long they have been treating/teaching?  Two years is the very least amount.
• Are they registered with the UK Reiki Federation?  You can check on the website www.reikifed.co.uk
• Are they fully insured? Ask to see their certificate.
• Are they up-to-date with new developments in reiki?  New research on the origins of reiki, reiki experiences and reiki books are appearing all the time. Does your teacher have up-to-date knowledge.
• Do they teach from their own home or in a centre?  Learning reiki can sometimes be an emotional experience so you may prefer the informal surroundings of their home.
• How big are the groups?  Beware of learning reiki in groups larger than five.  Reiki is a very special experience and individual support is important.  
• How much support will they give you after? If you have any problems or questions after the course, will they be prepared to have emails or phone calls from you?
• Do they run a Reiki Sharing group?  Your teacher should be able to provide as much practice as you need.